Microsoft's 89,000 Employees to Receive Windows Phone 7 Handsets

Microsoft is just coming off a strong Q1 showing, having witnessed a 25 percent increase in revenue to $16.2 billion thanks to strong Windows 7, Office 2010 and Xbox 360 sales.

Since Microsoft wouldn't be in this position if it weren't for its hard-working employees who help to develop and market these products, it's giving a little back just in time for the holiday season. In a conversation with Network World, Windows Phone exec Guy Gilbert confirmed that "every Microsoft employee will be getting a Windows Phone 7 phone." Network World notes that Microsoft will likely also be covering the data service for the phones.

Gilbert went on to say that Windows-based smartphone usage on Microsoft's campuses isn't exactly 100 percent, but the gift of a free Windows Phone 7 handset should go a long way towards reaching that mark. "[A lot] of people use Windows phones, prior or current. Everybody's very excited about the fact that they're going to get a Windows Phone 7," Gilbert continued.

It is unknown, however, which Windows Phone 7 handsets Microsoft will be handing out to customers -- the company has a wide range of designs to choose from from the likes of Samsung, LG, and HTC. Although its employees would probably like to have at least a few designs to choose from (i.e. keyboard versus no keyboard), we doubt many will complain about a free phone.